Germany plans forced military service for all citizens? Merz's big hint in Parliament| Russia| NATO

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has warned that Germany may reintroduce mandatory military service if voluntary recruitment fails to deliver the troop numbers needed for the Bundeswehr, speaking in the Bundestag ahead of the European Council Summit. Merz said the government prefers an attractive, voluntary model but must keep the option of conscription open. Under new plans, all 18 year olds will receive a mandatory survey on military service, with medical checks for men born from January 2008. Germany is aiming to expand its armed forces to 260,000 troops, up from 183,000, as defence spending surges.